News & Views
How do you testify before the U.S. Congress, pitch a news story, run a business, show up in your community, fund a campaign, and still find time for Italian meatballs?
You learn to prioritize—and you learn to tell the truth. These posts are my take on what’s happening right now and the reinvigoration that came when I finally made time for myself. Explore the categories below—I’d love to hear from you.
BART’s $376 Million Deficit Crisis: Why More Taxes Won’t Fix It
In this eye-opening episode of the Purple Inspiration Podcast, host Judy sits down with Deborah Allen — former BART Director, CPA, financial expert, and longtime public servant.Deborah served 8 years on the BART Board and brings an insider’s perspective on...
Building Consensus in a Divided World
In this episode, host Judy sits down with Margaret Liang — a respected community leader, board chair of the Tri-Valley APAPA chapter, Stanford Healthcare Tri-Valley board member, and longtime advocate for inclusive civic engagement.Leaders Rising Above the...
Mastering Productivity in the Digital Age
Dr. Deb Smith-Hemphill is a productivity expert, executive coach, and founder of DSH Enterprises with nearly 40 years of experience helping leaders communicate and perform better.Leaders Rising Above the Noise: Spotlighting bold women in policy, entrepreneurship,...
A Night at the Capitol with Chuck Norris
I met a lot of famous people when I worked at the U.S. Capitol—particularly when I worked for Senator Bob Dole (R-KS) when he was U.S. Senate Majority Leader. Some celebrities were quick drive-bys. I once saw Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward sign in and walk...
Are You Ready for Reinvention?
America has fallen completely in love with Alysa Liu. Her grace and ease as a skater won her the Gold at the 2026 Olympics. She is adorable—striped hair and all—and a real symbol of Oakland, a place she calls home, as the daughter of a Chinese...
25 Years Later: Italian & Sicilian American Memories of my Dad
This was Frank Biviano in 1945. Today, he is celebrating his 99th birthday in heaven. It’s hard to believe that it has been 25 years since he passed away, but his memory is a constant for me, as is my Mom’s. We were raised right and we were proud of our...